Step 1

In the bowl of a mixer: Add water and yeast. Let it foam up (about 5 minutes.) If it doesn't foam up you need new yeast!

Step 2

Add 4/5ths of the flour to the water and mix on the lowest speed setting for 5 minutes. This helps to develop the gluten.

Step 3

Now add the butter, salt, and sugar, mix to combine. Once incorporated into the dough, add the rest of the flour and keep the mixer going, on the lowest speed setting, until the dough passes the window pane test. (see above note about how to do this)

Step 4

Place dough in a bowl that has been lightly sprayed with cooking spray. spray the dough with cooking spray as well. Cover the dough bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and place in a warm, draft-free location until it has doubled in size. This usually takes about 1 hour.

Step 5

Turn the risen dough out on to a clean countertop. Choose a method for shaping the buns that is described in detail above and follow the directions.

Step 6

Place the prepared buns on a baking sheet that is lined with parchment paper and cover with a clean kitchen cloth.

Step 7

Let shaped buns rise in a warm draft-free location for 30-60 minutes until they have doubled in size.

Step 8

Preheat Oven to 350°F

Step 9

Bake at 350°F for 30 Minutes. Cool on a baking rack before slicing them.